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ICC World T20 2016: Kevin Pietersen backs India as favourites

England discard Kevin Pietersen feels that India are favourites to win the ICC World T20 trophy with likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in their side.

user-circle cricketcountry.com Written by Cricket Country Staff
Published: Feb 03, 2016, 11:43 AM (IST)
Edited: Feb 03, 2016, 12:35 PM (IST)

Kevin Pietersen amassed © Getty Images
Kevin Pietersen amassed 323 runs for Melbourne Stars in BBL 2015-16 © Getty Images

Kevin Pietersen who has recently been in the news due to his brilliant performance in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2015-16 making 323 runs for Melbourne Stars, with voices echoing his return in England national colors. Pietersen who is ready to play for Quetta Gladiators in the inaugural season of Pakistan Super League(PSL), cities his favorite for the upcoming ICC World T20 2016 in India and also await his fate in the ninth edition of Indian Premier League(IPL).  Pietersen believes that India are way ahead in the race to win the World T20 as it has superstar players in Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Pietersen in an interview to cricket portal cricbuzz was speaking on various issues. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen an extraordinary talent; needed a good captain: David Gower

When asked on how he feels about participating in Pakistan Super League (PSL) Pietersen feels that it will be exciting and fun playing in a new league. “I honestly don’t know what it’s going to be like, that’s the exciting thing. I’m sure it’s going to be a really exciting competition, and given the players who are taking part, very competitive as well. The UAE is also a fantastic place to play sport, so I think the players are going to have great fun both on and off the field,” Pietersen was quoted.

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Speaking on how difficult it will be to adjust from BBL to PSL, Pietersen said that he is not stranger to such change of conditions. “I’m feeling really good about my game, so hopefully I can pick off from where I left. As I’ve got older and more experienced, I know how to prepare myself to get the very best from my game. I’m no stranger to the conditions we’re going to be facing, and fingers crossed, I can score some runs and contribute positively to the team. I’m also looking forward to working with the younger players in the team and passing on any advice or help I can give. I’ve been fortunate enough to play the game for so long and helping the youngsters out is something I really enjoy doing,” Pietersen added ALSO READ: Yuvraj Singh, Dale Steyn, Kevin Pietersen, Ishant Sharma among marquee players for IPL 2016

When asked on who he would like to play for in the upcoming IPL season, Pietersen made it clear that he is more looking after playing in India than anything else. “I honestly don’t have a preference. I’m just really excited at the prospect of playing in India again. I’ve made no secret that I love playing in India and the reception and warmth I receive from all the fantastic people over there is incredible. I’m just looking forward to hopefully getting back playing over there and catching up with some old friends as well,” Pietersen explained.
Asked who he believes can easily could go on and win the ICC World T20 2016 in home conditions, Pietersen was quick to add India as one of the front runner. “It’s right up in the air, in my opinion. There are so many teams who have world class players who can change a game, and that’s what you need in a competition like that. But I’d say right now, India are the ones to beat. Not only are they a great side, but home advantage means a lot. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are genuine superstars of the game. I love watching these guys bat and I have a feeling they could be the ones to do the business,” stated Pietersen.
Pietersen was also very upbeat on England chances of winning the T20 World Cup after seeing them topple Test No.1 South Africa with a thumping defeat in the Test series. “It’s a really exciting time for our young squad as there’s so much talent in there. Guys like Joe Root, Jason Roy and Ben Stokes have been doing fantastically well and the new coach, Trevor Bayliss, seems to be doing the right things, which is fantastic. Could England win the World Cup? Absolutely. But they’ll have to play to the best of their ability and all perform collectively as a team. It’s still a young squad, so I just hope they have the experience to handle the pressure. But, in Eoin Morgan they have a brilliant player and captain who’ll be there leading from the front,” said Pietersen.
Finally on conclusion of the interview Pietersen made his desires quite open about returning for England colors. “I’ve made no secret of my desire to play for England at the World Cup, but whether it happens, I don’t honestly know. If I do get selected, amazing. If not, I’ll carry on as normal and support the guys. I’m just looking forward to a brilliant tournament,” concluded Pietersen.

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